Welcome to my portfolio. I’m a professional tattoo artist with 10+ years of experience based in the Pilsen neighborhood of Chicago.

My work is rooted in Black and Grey Realism and Geometric design, focusing on high-contrast, large-scale projects that stand the test of time. My process is built entirely on a foundation of mutual trust. I view myself as your shepherd through the tattoo journey—you bring the initial spark of an idea, and I provide the direction to turn it into a masterpiece.

I do ask for complete creative freedom on my projects, but that freedom is always anchored in your original vision. It isn't about overriding what you want; it’s about giving me the space to take your core concept and elevate it using a decade of technical expertise. When you trust me to take the wheel and push the design to its highest potential, we get the absolute best result.

Thank you for your interest in my work. Feel free to search by style or browse the full collection below to see what we can create together.

Chicago tattoo artist, Nelson Aviles who has been tattooing for 10 years in the black and grey realism style